Top 10: International Driving Routes

By definition, driving is a privilege. In all honesty, it feels like an unalienable right. It's like a key element to sustain life — at least, a life worth living. Some people get suspicious of guys with cats while the more critical get suspicious of guys who aren’t passionate about driving. Being behind the wheel is at once relaxing and invigorating. Factor in lenient or non-existent speed limits and great geography, and it enriches the soul.

Not long ago, we put two wheels to the pavement in search of great motorcycle routes. After such an extensive mission, we felt a deep obligation to sample more great roads. Grab your passports, throw in your favorite CD and strap in for some car routes outside the States. These routes cover a variety of climates and geography on five continents. You’ll no doubt be surprised by at least a couple of the picks.

Note: All amounts are in U.S. dollars.

Number 10

German Autobahn

Would automakers like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche turn out anything impressive if they didn’t have the Autobahn in their backyard? Since the first stretch from Bonn to Cologne was finished in 1932, the German Autobahn system has become legendary for thrills without limits… sort of. It’s often misunderstood, but only about half the system is without speed restrictions. The Austrian and Swiss Autobahns also cap your rate of travel, so don’t even try to play the uninformed tourist role with the authorities. Instead, head for southern Germany, where you’ll find most of the stretches without speed limits.

Tour highlight: The A90 – A99 in Bavaria. The combination of straights, mountains and corners is a buffet of driving delights.

Number 9

Bologna, Italy

It has been suggested that a car performs best on its home turf and that its personality is a reflection of the folks who built it. That’s definitely the case in Italy’s Bologna province — the region where Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati create their magic. Winding your way through narrow village streets, foothills and mountains gives the sense of competing in the famous Mille Miglia road race — the modern version that cuts through the area. Just keep in mind that the A13 and other autostrada have speed limits of 81 mph for cars with at least 1.1-liter engines. The polizia are known to be lenient, but not all-forgiving. To get the best driving experience in Bologna, or anywhere for that matter, hit the strade bianchi (that means country roads if your Italian is a little rusty).

Tour highlight: Thinking you’re being pulled over for speeding, only to have the police pass you so they can go faster.

If you're afraid of heights, avoid France and head to Australia instead…